Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Welcome to a dish that’s about to become your new best friend in the kitchen—Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce. Picture this: tender chicken, perfectly cooked rotini, all wrapped up in a creamy, dreamy garlic butter sauce with the rich, nutty goodness of Parmesan. Trust me, every bite is a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for the family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is pure comfort food with a touch of elegance. It’s warm, cheesy, garlicky, and everything you’ve been craving. Ready to dive in? I promise you’re going to love it.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile

Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly

Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy

Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable

Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

Crowd-Pleasing

A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

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Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with a few pantry staples, but the result is a creamy, garlicky dream. Let’s break it down:

Chicken Breasts

The star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they soak up all those dreamy flavors.

Rotini

These spiral-shaped noodles are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy sauce. Plus, their shape holds up beautifully when tossed with the chicken and sauce.

Butter

A generous amount of butter is key to that rich, luxurious sauce that envelops everything.

Garlic

You know the saying—garlic makes everything better, right? This dish is no exception. It adds that aromatic, savory kick that perfectly complements the creaminess.

Heavy Cream

To bring that silky smooth texture to the sauce, you can’t go wrong with a good splash of heavy cream. It makes the sauce ultra-rich and velvety.

Parmesan Cheese

The secret to that irresistible savory, nutty flavor. A generous amount of Parmesan will have you reaching for seconds.

Seasonings

Salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning bring everything together beautifully.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken breasts in a hot skillet until golden and cooked through. Once cooked, set them aside to rest and slice them up into juicy pieces.

Boil the Rotini

While your chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your rotini until al dente. This only takes about 8-10 minutes, and those noodles are going to pair so beautifully with the creamy sauce!

Make the Sauce

In the same pan, melt your butter and sauté garlic until fragrant—this is where the magic happens! Then add the heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until everything’s beautifully creamy and combined. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and pepper!

Combine Everything

Toss the cooked rotini and chicken into the sauce and give everything a good stir. Let it all simmer together for a minute or two to let the flavors marry.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs, if you’re feeling fancy. Now, dig in and savor every bite!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This dish is perfect all on its own, but if you’re looking to take it to the next level, here are a few ideas to complete the meal:

Fresh Salads

Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.

Crusty Bread

Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.

Creamy Accompaniments

Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.

Vegetable Sides

Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.

As a Standalone

Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead

Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.

Spice It Up

Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.

Dietary Adjustments

If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to [time duration]. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.

Double the Batch

This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute [ingredient] with [alternative ingredient]?

A1: Absolutely! For instance, if you don’t have [ingredient], you can use [alternative]. It may slightly alter the flavor, but it’ll still be delicious.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it [specific instructions] and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it just before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to [time]. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain texture.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?

A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to [time]. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

A5: Reheat in the oven at [temperature] for [time] or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?

A6: Definitely! Just make sure you have a larger pan or dish to accommodate the extra volume. Cooking time may need slight adjustments.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for [specific diet]?

A7: With a few tweaks, yes! For example, to make it vegan, substitute [specific ingredient] with [alternative].

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?

A8: Some great options include mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a simple rice pilaf.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?

A9: Use low-fat or low-sodium versions of the ingredients where possible. Adding extra vegetables is another great way to boost its nutritional value.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?

A10: A [specific cookware recommendation] works best. For example, if it’s an oven-baked dish, a ceramic baking dish ensures even cooking.

Conclusion

The next time you’re looking for something warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce will not disappoint. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a dinner party, this dish will be the star of the show. Just follow the easy steps, and before you know it, you’ll be indulging in a creamy, garlicky, cheesy masterpiece. Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

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  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Dinner
  • Method: Italian-American
  • Cuisine: Stovetop
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This creamy garlic butter chicken & rotini in parmesan sauce is a decadent and easy dinner that combines tender chicken, rotini pasta, and a rich, velvety parmesan sauce. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions!


Ingredients

Scale


  1. 12 oz rotini pasta


  2. 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces


  3. 2 tbsp butter


  4. 1 tbsp olive oil


  5. 4 cloves garlic, minced


  6. 1 cup chicken broth


  7. 1 ½ cups heavy cream


  8. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese


  9. ½ tsp salt (or to taste)


  10. ½ tsp black pepper


  11. ½ tsp smoked paprika


  12. ½ tsp Italian seasoning


  13. ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)


  14. ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)


  15. ½ cup pasta water (if needed, for sauce consistency)


  16. 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)



Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

  • Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

  • Make the Parmesan Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add Parmesan cheese and mozzarella (if using), stirring until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Stir in red pepper flakes (if using) for a little heat.

 

  • Combine & Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained rotini. Toss everything together to coat in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.


Notes

  • You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier result.

  • If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

 

  • For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan on top before serving.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: ~550 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg

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